There’s something really satisfying about walking into a room that smells amazing—especially when that scent comes from herbs you grew yourself. Potpourri might feel a little old-fashioned, but it’s making a quiet comeback, and for good reason. It’s simple, it’s natural, and it’s a lovely way to hang on to the best parts of your garden long after the growing season is over.
If you’re already growing herbs for cooking or tea, you’re halfway there. A few small changes—like letting some plants flower or harvesting at just the right time—can give you everything you need for a fragrant bowl of homemade potpourri. Here are 12 herbs that bring both beauty and scent to the table, perfect for mixing, drying, and filling your home with something that actually smells like home.
Lavender
Lavender, with its soothing scent, is a classic in the world of aromatherapy. Its vibrant purple flowers add both color and fragrance to any potpourri. Historically, it’s been used for its calming properties.
When dried, the flowers retain their scent for a long time, making them perfect for sachets placed in drawers or under pillows. Imagine the gentle rustling of dried lavender releasing a sweet, calming aroma.
Lavender’s versatility in both culinary and aromatic applications makes it a must-have in your fragrant herb garden.
Rosemary
Rosemary exudes a robust, earthy fragrance that is both invigorating and refreshing. Its needle-like leaves are a staple in many kitchens, but its aromatic qualities shine in potpourri.
The scent of rosemary can evoke memories of hearty meals and warm gatherings. Dried rosemary maintains its fragrance and combines well with citrus peels and spices.
Growing rosemary is relatively easy and its resilience makes it ideal for beginners. This herb’s hearty aroma is a delightful addition to any fragrant collection.
Mint
Mint offers a crisp, refreshing scent that revitalizes any room. Known for its cooling properties, mint leaves add a fresh burst of aroma to potpourri.
Imagine the cool breeze of a mint garden in the morning, invigorating your senses. Dried mint leaves mix wonderfully with lavender and lemongrass.
Whether grown in pots indoors or outdoors, mint is easy to cultivate and spreads quickly, ensuring you have a steady supply for your aromatic needs.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm, with its delightful citrus fragrance, brings a sunny, uplifting aroma to potpourri blends. Its lemony scent is often associated with calmness and clarity.
The bright green leaves of lemon balm can be dried easily, maintaining their fragrance over time. Mixing it with lavender or chamomile creates a soothing scent profile.
Growing lemon balm is a joy, as it thrives well in pots or gardens, attracting bees with its small white flowers. It’s a versatile herb with a fresh, lively fragrance.
Basil
Basil’s sweet and spicy aroma elevates any potpourri with its unique scent. Often associated with summer and Mediterranean cuisine, basil adds a warm, aromatic fragrance.
Dried basil leaves, when combined with rosemary and thyme, create a delightful herbal blend. Its scent can remind one of sunlit kitchens and hearty meals.
Growing basil is straightforward, and its lush leaves are not only aromatic but also a culinary delight. It’s an indispensable part of a fragrant herb collection.
Thyme
Thyme offers a subtle, earthy fragrance that complements other herbs well. Its small leaves pack a powerful aromatic punch, perfect for enhancing potpourri.
The woody scent of thyme evokes images of Mediterranean landscapes and warm, sunny days. Dried, it holds its fragrance exceptionally well.
Thyme is easy to grow, needing just a sunny spot and some well-drained soil. It’s a robust herb that rewards with a rich scent and culinary uses, making it a garden favorite.
Chamomile
Chamomile is cherished for its gentle, apple-like aroma and calming properties. Its small, daisy-like flowers add a sweet scent to potpourri blends.
The relaxing scent of chamomile is perfect for unwinding after a long day. When dried, the flowers retain their soothing fragrance and look charming in sachets.
Growing chamomile is simple, providing a cascade of fragrant blooms. It’s not just for tea; chamomile’s calming scent makes it an essential for any aromatic collection.
Sage
Sage offers a strong, earthy fragrance that is both cleansing and invigorating. Its soft, silvery leaves add a touch of elegance to potpourri.
Often used in rituals and cleansing practices, sage’s aroma is known to clear the air and refresh the senses. Dried sage maintains its distinct scent beautifully.
Growing sage is rewarding, as it thrives in sunny areas and adds both visual and aromatic appeal to any garden. It’s a fragrant staple in herbal collections.
Lemongrass
Lemongrass exudes a fresh, lemony scent that energizes and uplifts. Its long, slender leaves are perfect for adding a citrus note to potpourri.
The invigorating fragrance of lemongrass brings a lively freshness to any room. Combined with mint or basil, it creates a refreshing blend.
Easy to grow in warm climates, lemongrass requires minimal care but delivers maximum aroma. Its fresh scent and culinary uses make it a versatile herb to cultivate.
Oregano
Oregano’s robust, peppery aroma is a staple in many savory dishes, but it also adds depth to potpourri.
The scent of oregano can transport you to an Italian kitchen, filled with warmth and spices. Its dried leaves maintain a strong fragrance that pairs well with rosemary and thyme.
Growing oregano is straightforward, and it thrives in sunny locations, offering a bountiful supply of aromatic leaves. It’s a wonderful herb to have, both for cooking and for its fragrance.
Bay Laurel
Bay Laurel offers a subtle yet distinct aroma that is both spicy and sweet. Its glossy leaves are often associated with victory and honor.
The fragrance of bay leaves is reminiscent of ancient traditions and grand celebrations. Dried, they release a warm and inviting scent, perfect for potpourri.
Bay Laurel can grow into a beautiful tree, providing both culinary leaves and aromatic additions to your home. It’s a symbol of elegance and history in any garden.
Patchouli
Patchouli’s rich, musky scent is unmistakable and deeply relaxing. This herb’s broad leaves are a favorite for adding depth to potpourri.
The exotic aroma of patchouli is often associated with tranquility and introspection. Its scent lingers, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Growing patchouli requires a warm environment, but its aromatic rewards are immense. It’s a distinctive herb that brings a touch of the exotic to your fragrant collection.